Open Source! ... about to be taken seriously by Becta?
Becta are encouraging the use of open source software in its latest framework agreement for software. The four year agreement will start in October and replace the current software licensing framework that has been in place since 2005.
Up to 10 suppliers will be on the £80m framework, and Becta are particularly looking for suppliers who can offer a
"... comprehensive choice of software solutions including appropriate open source and free to use alternatives ..."
Before someone asks how its possible to have a framework contract for free and open source software, it is helpful to understand that whilst open source and other software may be free, the expertise and advice needed to get the right mix of applications and operating systems in education is not free. What we need is to make sure open source is part of the overall software offer for schools, and that the technical expertise recognises this.